Pat Cummins and Matt Renshaw steady Aussie chase after early collapse

The first day at Kingsmead featured a dramatic Australian batting dip, with six wickets lost for 187 runs. Pat Cummins, after opting to bat, was the anchor, scoring 33 runs. Matt Renshaw, supported by three boundaries, added 46 runs. Their 63‑run partnership over 140 balls rescued Australia from a precarious position.

South Africa’s fast bowlers were relentless. Marco Johnson bowled a disciplined 16‑over spell, taking two wickets for 35 runs. Vian Moulder matched him with two for 31, and Enrik Norten, back after a three‑year hiatus, claimed two wickets for 40 runs in 13.2 overs. The innings was interrupted by low light and damp weather, limiting play to just 65.2 overs. The hosts will continue to leverage their pace attack, while the Australian side hopes Renshaw can build a substantial innings on the second day.